Monday, November 7, 2016

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. ~ John F. Kennedy

Veterans Day is a federal holiday celebrated every year in the United States on the 11th of November. Originally called "Armistice Day," it was intended to honor veterans of foreign wars, but its purpose over the years has evolved to include and honor anyone who has ever served honorably in the military. It affords us an opportunity to thank veterans and their families for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served ~ not only those who died ~ have sacrificed and done their duty.

In addition to the Veterans Day National Ceremony held each year on November 11 at Arlington National Cemetery at 11 a.m., communities across America plan their own ways to observe the holiday ~ but you need not wait until that day to reach out to veterans and their families.

At AARP's Create the Good site, you'll find dozens of ways to give a lift to military families in your local community.

Joining Forces is another national initiative that encourages all of us to support our military service members and their families with jobs, education, and health-related issues.

StoryCorpsis an organization based on the belief that every story matters, and its mission is to preserve and share those stories. "For more than a decade, 2.4 million men and women have served in Iraq and Afghanistan while millions of families have stood behind them at home. The military community knows well the challenges of multiple deployments, combat-injuries, and long-awaited homecomings. Yet few civilians truly understand the complex realities of our troops’ service and sacrifice. TheMilitary Voices Initiative provides a platform for veterans, service members, and military families to share their stories, as a way to honor their voices, amplify their experiences, and let them know that we—as a nation—are listening."

Our Veterans put everything on the line to protect our freedom. We may never be able to repay them for their sacrifice, but we can show them just how much we appreciate all that they’ve done.

Everyone can do something to let Veterans know how much we appreciate their service. Visit www.volunteer.va.gov.

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